Lead exposure is dangerous, especially for children and pregnant women. It can damage the kidneys and nervous system.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cited tamarind candy as a cause of lead poisoning in several cases in 1999. It is still considered a potential source of lead exposure for children ().

Although it has fewer calories and less sugar than many other types of candy, it's still candy, making it the least healthy form of tamarind.

Bottom Line: Tamarind candy may contain unsafe amounts of lead. For that reason, children and pregnant women should avoid it.